SAG-AFTRA Prepares for 2026 Union Negotiations Cycle

SAG-AFTRA will commence its bargaining cycle for a new three-year agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers on February 9, 2026. This makes SAG-AFTRA the first major union to begin negotiations for the upcoming cycle.

The union has planned for an additional negotiation period before its current labor agreement expires on June 30, 2026. The AMPTP expressed optimism about reaching a mutually beneficial agreement that could promote long-term stability in the industry.

Union president Sean Astin and chief negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland emphasized the importance of starting early for practical and strategic reasons. They noted that early negotiations allow for thorough discussions of proposals and provide greater leverage by minimizing the time companies have to stockpile inventory.

While specific priority issues for the union are still being determined through member engagement sessions, it is clear that updating AI protections will be a significant focus. Both Astin and Crabtree-Ireland conveyed that they are not looking for a contentious negotiation but will not accept the first offer presented.

Gregory Hessinger will lead the negotiations for the studios, having replaced longtime AMPTP chief negotiator Carol Lombardini earlier this year. Hessinger has extensive experience with unions, previously serving as the national executive director of SAG and AFTRA.

The 2026 negotiations are positioned to be pivotal for the entertainment industry as they may set a precedent for other unions in the upcoming cycle.